Review - How to Write a Story

How to Write a Story
by Kate Messner
illustrated by Mark Siegel
Date: 2020
Publisher: Chronicle Books LLC
Reading level: C
Book type: picture book non-fiction
Pages: 36
Format: e-book
Source: library

Step 1: Choose an idea for your story. A good one.
Step 2: Decide on a setting. Don't be afraid to mix things up.
Step 3: Create a heroine—or a hero.
Now: Begin.

Storytellers Kate Messner and Mark Siegel chronicle the process of becoming a writer in this follow-up to How to Read a Story, guiding young storytellers through the joys and challenges of the writing process. From choosing an idea, to creating a problem for their character to resolve, to coming to The End, this picture book breaks down the writing process.

(synopsis from Goodreads)

This is a cute little instruction manual for budding storytellers that offers basic, commonsense tips for writing (and sharing) your story.

I'm not sure what else to really say about this. Kids who are interested in writing will probably enjoy the book and feel inspired. Those who aren't interested in writing will likely give it a pass. Sometimes books have a very specific audience, and that's okay. The important thing is that books like this find their way into the hands of those who will appreciate them.

Premise: 4/5
Meter: n/a
Writing: 4/5
Illustrations: 4/5
Originality: 4/5

Enjoyment: 4/5

Overall: 4 out of 5